Play to Win

"Do or do not. There is no try." Jedi Master Yoda



I've heard people say that showing up is half the battle. And you know what? They're right. My business partner and I have accomplished so much in the past year just from being present, being active, being players in the game. Some things we went after and caught. Some things were tossed to us when we didn't expect it. Some things are still hanging in mid-air and we'll be able to grab them soon. And it's all been very good.

So...maybe the ball didn't fly gloriously through the air and land right in your glove the way that you envisioned. But if you don't hang your head and walk away, perhaps you'll be able to slide under it and catch it next time. Sure, it won't be as pretty as you planned. And you'll probably get really dirty. But the end result is that you did what you came to do. It got done. And you scored one for the team.

I recommend that you commit to doing it. Whatever your 'it' is. Don't try to make the networking event. Write it down in your calendar. Arrange a babysitter. And go.

Don't try to achieve your sales goals. Hit the streets and the phone lines until it's done.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Commit to each and every one of them.

Adrienne Adams is an author and business coach. She is passionate about helping women earn an income doing what they love to do -- and are probably already doing for free!

Would you like more information? Visit www.itsnotenoughtodream.com

Being the Best You All Year

New Year's Eve is one of those moments in time that should be liquefied, bottled, and prescribed for those who need a dose of motivation. It's a moment of possibility and excitement. It's having an idea about what's to come, but being ready to get to it already. It's knowing that you have the opportunity for a do-over, or a chance to do it bigger and better than before. It's what we celebrate just once a year, but open our eyes to each morning.

As you move forward with your goals for 2011, I want to encourage you to remember that each day is one to be reflective, and realize new potential. In the past few months, I have gotten into a daily habit that has served me well and I'd like to share it with you.


Be Positive

Before you jump out of bed, complaining about how late you are and how everyone was supposed to prepare better the night before (five kids, I've been there), pause, do a mental switch and be thankful that you and your family are seeing another day. Make a note of what you need to do differently so that your days go smoother. Sandwich complaints in between compliments. In business, spend time working out solutions instead of staring at the obstacles.

Take Care

I'm sure that most lists for the new year include more of something. More money. More clients. More material things. More house. While I have a picture of a much grander abode on my vision board, it is still our responsibility to take care of the home that we have now. I spend time each day getting things in order. Do you only have a client or two? Even if they're friends and family, draw up paperwork and schedule appointments. You'll have all of your ducks in a row when you get more. More comes when we've done a good job with what we have.

Give

There is always something that you can give. A smile. Encouragement. Spare change. Look for ways to help others.

Move Forward

Now that you've changed your attitude, put in some time taking care of what you have, and helped someone else, you are absolutely creating a climate where you can achieve great success. Stick to your goals and come up with a list of a few things to accomplish each day. Be consistent. This time next year, you want to have 365 days worth of effort to show for it!

Adrienne Adams is an author and business coach. She is passionate about helping women earn an income doing what they love to do -- and are probably already doing for free!

Would you like more information? Visit www.itsnotenoughtodream.com